On a recent project, I wanted to make something a little more permanent, so I decided to try to design a PCB instead of sticking to the tried and true breadboard.

I've previously worked with PCB123 through my job, and found the experience to be good. Their included software was easy to use and in no time I had my first PCB designed and ordered. I was really excited when the finished PCB arrived in the mail, which turned almost immediately to disappointment when I found out I had screwed up the dimensions and it wouldn't work. i redesigned the PCB, printed out a true to size version of the layout, confirmed the sizing, and ordered again. I was happy to find out the second one was the correct dimensions, and after soldering, it worked well for its purpose.

For my personal project I drifted more towards Eagle from CADsoft as there are several batch PCB houses that will manufacture the PCB for fairly cheap, if you're willing to wait a bit longer. The PCB houses all accept files from Eagle to manufacture your design. The last time I checked, you could get the same Gerber files from PCB, but it would be $50. You can use Eagle for free as long as you're not going to use it for a commercial venture, so I gave it a shot. PCB123 delivered me a great board in a short time, but was also rather expensive compared to what I wanted to spend on a personal project where time wasn't really a factor. I just checked their rates again, and seem to be similar, but still more.

Once done with my design, I ordered through OSH Park. I'll update once the boards come in.

In the meantime, here's a link to the PCB design reference page.PCB Design